Staff and pupils at a Somerset primary school are in mourning after the sad death of a former head teacher.

Sue English was head teacher of Countess Gytha Primary School in Queen Camel for four years, until she was forced to retire due to ill health earlier this year.

The school has now confirmed that Ms English has passed away at the age of 55.

In a joint statement, staff, parents and pupils paid tribute to Ms English, describing her as "warm, caring and passionate" and praising her role in the design of the new school building which opened recently.

Ms English has been described as 'warm, caring and passionate' by those who knew her

A spokesperson said: "We are truly saddened to hear of the passing of our former head teacher, Sue English. Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this sad time.

"Sue was a wonderful head teacher and a warm and caring person, always with the best interests of the children at the heart of everything she’d do.

"Sue was passionate about the children’s learning environment and welcomed new initiatives and innovations. She also had a great sense of humour and would dress up in fantastic outfits for World Book Day.